Joyous scenes from the Bobby Moore stand

 

When all is said and done, its hard to match live footy. Since the Europa Conference win, the Hammers have had seasons to forget - so mediocre that you would almost wish for a relegation battle to bring meaning to the final quarter of the season.

Thanks to J-Lo and Potter, Nuno's Hammers find themselves in a proper relegation battle. Suddenly we are seeing the calibre of players like Soucek and Paqueta - while we know our Czech mate is made of titanium, the grit of our Brazilian maestro has been impressive. 

Backed by the tireless energy of Fernandes and Potts, suddenly we have a competitive midfield again. Our defence is still leaky but up front the Bowen-Wilson-Summervile triad is always a threat and gaining in cohesion. 

Yesterday the Hammers once again came from behind to win and we are now back in the thick of it all. Hilariously, after a terrible start, we are still only 8 points off a Champion's League place. 

We have a run of tricky fixtures up to Christmas and in reality need to look to grab 6-7 points over that period. With a consistent CB and another striker arriving in January, we should pull ourselves out of trouble. 

Either way, the gloom has lifted as the scenes from the BM stand after Soucek's crucial goal demonstrate.

COYI!!!

The boys are back in town!

The feeling of doom at West ham has finally lifted after last week’s impressive display against Newcastle. It feels like Nuno has found a setup that will work with the squad he has to hand. The task now is to build on that and chisel out as many points as possible between now and January when it looks like there will be lots of squad shuffling.

Seasoned observers will no doubt be impressed by Nuno’s determination to encourage our younger players which, when all is said and done, is at the heart of the West ham way.

The promotion of four of our development players to the first team squad lays down a major marker regarding Nuno’s intentions to mould the team over a sustained period. Doing this while maintaining results is a big challenge that most managers lack the courage to enact in the crazy managerial ping-pong of modern football. 

None of West ham’s managers over recent years have believed enough in our kids to go beyond token game time. Declan Rice was a notable exception but then again he is possibly the best player in the Premiership. 

No doubt Freddie Potts has had a happy head on him all week but his dad, himself a former Hammer of the year, will help him to maintain perspective. The lad has put in some hard work in the lower divisions to get to where he is but you’d have to think that his game is best suited to Premiership football. Put simply, he moves like a baller. It was a travesty that his goal last week was ruled offside but maybe it will help keep the frenzy of positivity under some degree of control.

Today is truly a six-pointer as Scotty Parker brings his determined Burnley side to the London Stadium. Given where things are, you would have to feel that at least one claret n blue side will be among the three clubs that suffer the drop this season. Today’s clash will be a key factor in deciding that fate. 

Nuno’s boys really need our best support today so let’s try and create a big atmosphere. Let the protest activity stop at the turnstiles and lets get the place rocking! A win today would add considerable oxygen to Nuno’s campaign. He is an impressive presence - calm, thoughtful but also astute and penetrating. His gaze suggests a deep awareness of the art of footy and already you can sense that he understands the bigger culture of the club as a community. Hopefully the Gods of Footy will deliver results that allow the time necessary for his plans to develop. 

The VeryWestHam team are over in force today and will be cheering from the Bobby Moore stand.

COYI🛠

Sent from Outlook for Android

Hammers Stave off Reaper (for now)

 

It’s a recurring part of the fabric of West ham that an unexpected good result is followed by a poor performance against less quality opposition. 

While Sunday’s display against Newcastle was impressive, the Hammers really need to buck their usual pattern and follow up with a win against Burnley this weekend. 

There was much to savour on Sunday - having fallen behnd to a wonder strike from Jacob Murphy, Nuno’s men dug deep to chisel out a deserved victory. 

The defensive organistion and tenacious midfield snuffed out the Magpies, while uo front Summerville, Bowen and Paqueta played with purpose and as a unit to keep Newcastle under threat throughout.

Fernandes and Freddie Potts brought a level of energy to the midfield that has been lacking since Declan Rice departed, with Potts gaining confidence all the time he gets game time.

But Newcastle had a host of injuries and an eye on Europe that was almost certainly a factor in howthe game evolved. Burnley will bring a lot more fight and will know that even just 10 games into the season that this is already a relegation six pointer!

Patience and determination will be key factors at the weekend. A big plus is that Nuno seems to have found his best starting XI and a formation that allows defensive stability with a decent attacking threat.

Lucas Paqueta had his best game in a while against Newcastle and can expect to be targeted against Burnley. That should provide space for Fernandes and Potts to show what they are capable of. 

Summerville is well overdue a goal to complement a string of decent performances. Nuno seems to have realised that Diouf is the best left back option to support him.

The Hammers are still 49.3% likely to be relegated on current opta supercomputer calculations. Saturday will greatly influence that rating - up or down!

After Saturday, West ham have a string of tricky fixtures bringing them to Christmas. If they can squeeze out some results between now and then, a few astutes incomings in January and we can push on. 

Beating Burnley is key to that. As fans need to get right behind them on what will be a crunching collision.

COYI!!!

Reasons to be cheerful; one, two, three...

At last, West ham's season has kicked into life. Despite all the pessimism of late, Nuno's men finally found a rhythm and totally deserved their win against a tepid Newcastle United. 

There was lots to like about the Hammers performance but three things stood out during the clash;

Firstly, having Fernandes and Potts in midfield adds much needed energy and allows Paqueta to push forward where he looks happier and is much more effective. Paq is well and truly back!

Secondly, we can defend if the midfield provides a decent shield. Newcastle probably dreamed of Bruno, Joelinton et all running riot through our usually sluggish midfield but had very little joy as Nuno finally found a formation that works for this squad.

Thirdly, Potts was outstanding. Comfortable on the ball and he's getting braver with more game time. Such a pity his goal strike was unluckily ruled offside but he looks the business and will surely grow and grow.

Burnley up next and a chance to build momentum as we smash our way out of the relegation zone.

We have hope once more....

COYI!!!

It's as good as we've got. Hammers XI for Newcastle

Here we go. West ham with the worst home record in the Premiership vs a Newcastle side that do poorly on their travels.

Nuno has an energetic mdield with Potts and Fernandes alongside Paqueta. We've got three up front with Callum Wilson spearheading Bowen and Summerville. It's a flat back four as WB and Diouf start with Klman and Todibo. 

You'd take a draw, gladly :-(

West Ham United: Areola, Wan-Bissaka, Kilman, Todibo, Diouf, Potts, Fernandes, Paquetá, Bowen ©, Summerville, Wilson

Subs: Hermansen (GK), Walker-Peters, Igor, Mayers, Rodríguez, Magassa, Irving, Luis Guilherme, Souček

It's a shambles with no end in sight

It's a sad reflection on how far West ham have fallen but after just 9 games Nuno's side already look like relegation fodder, languishing 6 points from safety. 

Nuno has one hell of a job to do to turn this around. His best chance is to scrap out a few results so that the Hammers ar still in a salvagable position come the January transfer window.

That'll be easier said than done with aporous defence leaking goals for fun at set pieces, a misfiring midfield and no central attacking presence. It's a total mess!

The visit of Newcastle today seems unlikely to offer any respite. Under Moyes, we might have tried to keep it tight and sneak a breakaway goal, but that is not Nuno's way

It's hard to see the Hammers coming out on top in a toe to toe with any other Premiership club just now. A loss to Burnley next week would likely see us 10 points adrift from safety - a tall task for this unhappy squad.

It's fingers crossed that Nuno has concocted something more viable on the training ground. Pushing Paqueta further forward alongside Bowenand Summerville, with Potts and Fernandes buzzing around deeper as Soucek does his physical thing seems like the best option just now. 

No doubt Newcastle will hae their own ideas about that. Let's hope ther is at least more spirit than against Brentford.

COYI!!!

Shocking scenes at London Stadium as Nuno plan fails miserably

West ham started with what might be considered an 'experimental' starting XI against Brentford this evening with lots of incoming players. Without any exaggeration, it's been a complete disaster!

The Hammers have been totally outplayed by Brentford, who have had a dozen chances already and are sauntering around the pitch with gay abandon. The Hammers, meanwhile, have mustered a single shot on goal and look clueless.

The only surprise is that Brentford are just a single goal up, as a second was (just) ruled offside on the half time whistle.

Irving looks lost, while the rotation of Scarles and Walker-Peters from their usual full back positions makes no fathomable sense!

It's a big test of Nuno's ability to accept when he's got it wrong and make multiple changes asap!

In reality, The Bees could be 3-4 goals up. You'd have to feel fearful for the second half. Thankfully, there will be few youngsters at the evening game as this is truly traumatising.

And as if to rub salt into the wounds, Brentford are wearing a delicious kit that is a rip off of 'that' away kit that the Hammers seem to have abandoned in recent decades despite it being the best ever kit, ever! 

COYI!

Nuno pulls a shocker for Brentford visit

Nuno has really shaken things uo for tonight's visit of Brentford! 

God only knows what he has seen during the international break but the starting XI has taken fans by surprise - big time!

The defence is totally altered with Todibo, Scarles and Walker-Peters alongside Max Kilman!

Tomas Soucek isback after his red card ban alongside Irving who gets his first start. 

No room for the impressive Diouf, Wan-Bissaka or Magassa.

It's a weird selection for what will be a strange game as many fans have elected to stay away in protest at the board. 

Buckle up!

West Ham: Areola, Walker-Peters, Todibo, Kilman, Scarles, Souček, Irving, Fernandes, Summerville, Bowen ©, Paquetá

Subs: Hermansen (GK), Wan-Bissaka, Diouf, Mavropanos, Potts, Rodríguez, Magassa, Marshall, Wilson

Crazy turn of events as the Hammers hit the final hour of the transfer window!

 

With the Nayef Aguerd deal with Marseille done and dusted it’s going to be a frantic final hour for West ham as they are now rumoured to be back in the hunt for Brighton’s Igor Julio!

The Gueti transfer to Liverpool has stalled leaving the door open for Igor to head to West ham instead of Crystal Palace!

Meanwhile, the Hammers are reputedly trying to nail down a deal with Chelsea for another CB - Axel Disasi!

Either way, Graham Potter needs at least one additional CB nd we will know in an hour or so if he has gotten his wishes!

Is this the new Demba Ba - Hammers weighing up striking sensation!

Back in 2011 Demba Ba arrived at West ham and became an instant success, banging in 7 goals in 12 games as the Hammers tried to avoid relegation. Ba came with a health warning as he had failed a medical at Stoke. However, that proved unwarranted as he continued his excellent scoring form after he exited the relegated Hammers with impressive spells at Newcastle and Chelsea. 

Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface comes with a similar tag - having lost out on a high profile move to Milan due to a failed medical. The 24 year old Nigerian striker brings pace and power along with an impressive goalscoring rate of over 50% (22 in 42 games) for Leverkusen.

However, it hasn’t been all smiles as he has had lengthy injury spells that have included two ACL injuries (2019 for 6 months and a full year in 2020/21). At Leverkusen, 

He sustained an adductor injury which kept him out for 3 months in 2024 and subsequently has had a variety of niggles. 

This would be a bit of a punt for West ham but the worst of his injuries do seem to be behind him and his robust style seems suited to the Premiership. 

The perfect Antonio replacement? Boniface’s time at Leverkusen appears up and a loan deal might be in the offing. The Hammers would certainly be transformed by a fit Boniface!

We will keep you updated…

The picture West Ham fans want to see right now

 

After splashing out close to £60m last week the Hammers need funds to continue a much needed squad rebuild. The news that Nayef Aguerd has been photographed in Marseille suggests that the Moroccan is set to exit the Hammers and join Emerson Palmieri as Roberto De Zerbi looks to add flair to his defensive set up. An estimated fee of £20m has been mooted which will give West Ham cash to find a more suitable replacement.

At this point any of six options to add to the central defence appear possible. Top of the list appears to be 23 year old Charlie Cresswell who has enjoyed an impressive spell at Toulouse. Other reports suggest that  Taylor Harwood-Bellis (also 23 y/o) is being considered but Southampton appear to be seeking a big fee. Other possibilities include loan deals for Chelsea outcast Axel Disasi, Braga’s 22 year old starlet Bright Arrey-Mbi or even the experienced Manuel Akanji from Man City. Earlier interest in Brighton’s Igor Julio seem to have cooled as he looks set to move to Crystal Palace.

Whatever happens, it's pretty clear that Aguerd is finally leaving so incoming seems inevitable. With new cash and such an array of choices it seems that the Hammers are in a strong position to add to Graham Potter’s options at centre back!

Best of luck to Aguerd who sadly never quite adjusted to the rigours of the Premiership.

Hammers to raid South coast again in search of Brazilian talent?

It's no secret that West Ham are seeking a replacement for want-away centre back Nayef Aguerd. With ex-Leeds youngster Charlie Cresswell apparently on the radar, latest rumours suggest that Graham Potter may be ready to swoop for Brighton’s out of favour Brazilian centre back Igor Julio.

Igor is a left-footed pacey ball-playing centre back who would be well suited to the Potter system. He will be remembered by Hammer's fans as part of the Fiorentina side that lost to west ham in the Europa Conference league final in 2023. On that occasion, his last ditch effort to prevent Jarrod Bowen from scoring the winning goal was unsuccessful.

If, as rumored, Aguerd moves to France today, West Ham will need further back up at centre back, as injuries to any of Kilman, Todibo or Mavropanus would seriously weaken their defence.

We’ll find out as the transfer window comes to a conclusion today.

COYI!!!

Crisis? What crisis? Hammers pillage 3-0 victory at Forest

Graham Potter wil be a relieved man tonight as West Ham's season kicked into gear with a canny 3-0 thrashing of Nottingham Forest. 

The Hammers had to be disciplined in defence as Forest huffed and puffed but they held firm and when their chance came they pounced. 

Potter will be chuffed with his game management as Summerville's introduction changed the game while Callum Wilson opened his goal account on a day Lucas Paqueta played a blinder!

Here's our player ratings...

Hermansen – 8. Much needed steady performance from the Dane. Importantly, communication with his defenders was solid throughout and he looked calm as Forest launched cross after cross into the Hammers box. 

Walker-Peters – 7. Lively all day. Linked well with Bowen to shore up the right flank throughout.

Mavropanos – 8. One of his best games in a Hammers short. Powerful in the air and looked unusually comfortable on the ball. 

Kilman – 7. More like what we expect. Disciplined and focused throughout in difficult conditions with the physicality of Wood to deal with. He seems to prefer the simplicity of a back four set up. 

Diouf – 8. Excellent stuff - blessed with pace but showed his calmness in defence. The pairing with Summerville on the left will terrify opponents as their understanding grows through the season 

Ward-Prowse – 6. Reduced to utility player status these days but a sensible head without anything flashy. Fernandes’ set pieces will dilute Ward Prowse's value as the newbie showed how accurate he can be.

Soucek – 7. Quietly effective. You cannot understate his value in the air - a big asset today as Forest bombarded the Hammers goal with crosses.

Bowen – 9. Once again he was the difference. Worked hard in defence and took his opportunity with aplomb.. 

Fernandes – 9. Tremendous debut. Energetic and skilful throughout. Looks like a masterful signing.  

Paqueta – 10. Tremendous throughout - competitive and, as always, an eye for an opening. The goal celebration was class. The Hammers need a gypsy-like soul (Di Canio, Payet, Arnautovic) and Lucas is the natural extension of that pulse. A great day for him.

Fullkrug – 6. Battled away but with limited impact. 

Substitutes:

Wilson: 8. Looked up for it and grabbed his debut goal in the process! 

Summerville: 9. Outstanding impact. His pace and control was a joy to behold!

Irving: 6. Solid for the few minutes he was on. 

The chaos continues as Hammers face a busy 36 hours

After three resounding defeats in a row, having conceded 11 goals, Graham potters West ham are in turmoil. After 12 consecutive seasons in the premiership, West Ham have rarely looked more like relegation fodder.  Mercifully, this disastrous start to season has spurred the board into action with the current level of movement akin to Brick Lane market!

Within the space of 24 hours in midweek the Hammers captured two mobile midfielders to add bite to their misfiring midfield with Mateus Fernandes arriving from Southampton for £38m while Soungoutou Magassa joined from Monaco for £17m. Addition of young, pacey and aggressive talent is much needed as Tomas Soucek’s ability is not based on pace whilst the ageing James Ward Prowse lacks the mobility West ham need in midfield right now.

However, those signings have left the hammers rather cash- strapped and rumours about a possible exit of midfield playmaker Lucas Paqueta to Aston Villa or possibly Spurs have upset the Hammers Apple cart as Paqueta is the one truly creative player in the squad and would surely thrive in a more dynamic midfield. Meanwhile,  Everton maintain a keen interest in bringing Tomas Soucek to Merseyside for a reunion with David Moyes. The Czech star brings an aerial presence  and goalscoring contribution that would be sorely missed.

At the back, Nayef Aguerd looks set to move to France with the possibility that Charlie Cresswell will move in the opposite direction to add some beef to what has been a feeble defence. The former Leeds defender is an impressive young talent who could be the player the Hammers hoped the off-form Max Kilman would be.

On top of all that activity, latest rumours suggest that West Ham are seriously looking at bringing in an attack-minded midfielder with Fabio Vieira of Arsenal in the spotlight. However, his time at Arsenal has been blighted by injuries and the Portuguese star has managed just two goals in thirty three appearances since his arrival at the  Gunners in 2022. With Summerville back soon Vieira would likely struggle to get game time and hardly seems worth an estimated £20m pay out right now.

The summer transfer window closes in England on Monday at 7pm. Buckle up because it's bound to get choppy over the next thirty six hours. In the meantime, the hammers make their way to the city ground.Looking for their first points of the season against Nottingham forest. 

Forest have experienced turmoil of their own at a board level.This season , with continued uncertainty about the future of manager Nuno Espirito Santo and have not kept a clean sheet in their last ten premiership games , but nonetheless have started the season strongly with four points from two games. No doubt , Chris Wood will be licking his lips in anticipation of scoring yet again against a leaky west ham defence. 

You’d take a draw!

KO is 2pm.

C’mon U Irons!!!

Here we go - "relegation six pointer" already beckons?

Its hard to believe but we are back already! After a relatively quiet Summer, mainly punctuated with exits, Graham Potters men make the long journey to Sunderland for the season's opener.

Its been a decent preseason in terms of results but that counts for little once the real business of the Premiership arrives. Potter will hopefully have gotten his squad finally schooled in possession-based tactics, while Sunderland have 11 newcomers to their squad and as such are an unknown quantity.

At the back, reintegrating Aguerd looks like a smart move with a new 3 centre back set up. Diouf adds pace down the wing, while Hermansen will hope to add consistency between the stick.

Up front, we can hope to finally get to see what Fullkrug has to offer - he's looked sharp in preseason. The continued absence of Summerville is disappointing but the prospect of a Diouf-Summerville left clank is exciting and should be possible in the coming weeks.

Midfield looks low in pace which is a worry. Potts may add in that regard as a substitute. Its hard to know what Rodriguez brings that Soucek couldnt offer, along with his exceptional aerial ability.....is he benched to rest him for an exit?

Folk on Talksport have penned this as a relagation six pointer which seems a bit harsh/histrionic but nevertheless a good start to the season would be very welcome!

KO is 3pm. 

Rory Nostradamus reckons the Hammers will expose the lack of familiarity in the Sunderland squad, with Callum Wilson coming on to score on his debut.

It's good to be back

COYI!!!

WEST HAM: Hermansen; Todibo, Kilman, Aguerd; Wan-Bissaka, Ward-Prowse, Rodriguez, Diouf; Paqueta;  Bowen (c), Fullkrug.

Subs: Areola, Mavropanos, Walker-Peters, Scarles, Soucek, Alvarez, Irving, Potts, Wilson. 

Hammers can play with freedom in Stateside clash

There's a clearer air around the Hammers as it inceasingly appears that the Paqueta cloud will pass with the talismanic Brazilian exonerated. More cynical observers await the fine print of any verdict as the FA are likely to try and closecthe door on further legal action by the player and the club.

Meanwhile, it's back to the real business of footy as the Hammers take on Man United in the preseason tournament in the USA. There's no Summerville but newby Diouf starts at left wing back with Walker-Peters on the bench.

interestingly, Nayef Aguerd looks like he can be a big part of the Potter revolution and again starts in a back three with Kilman and Todibo. 

Paqueta is on the bench.

Kick off is midnight. 

COYI!!!

West Ham United: Areola, Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Kilman, Aguerd, Diouf, Rodríguez, Ward-Prowse, Souček, Bowen ©, Füllkrug

Subs: Foderingham (GK), Herrick (GK), Walker-Peters, Scarles, Mavropanos, Casey, Golambeckis, Potts, Kanté, Irving, Fearon, Paquetá, Luis Guilherme, Cornet, Marshall

 

What on earth are the FA up to?

 

As the Lucas Paqueta case trundles on and on, ever closer to the start of the new season, you'd have to wonder what on earth the FA are up to. 

The 27-year-old talismanic West Ham midfielder  has seen two years of his life taken up by the FA investigation which still has not reached a conclusion. Given the relatively low burden of proof which for this investigation is of ‘probable likelihood’ rather than ‘beyond reasonable doubt’, it is baffling that the investigation remains unconcluded!

Meanwhile, the financial repercussions of this bungled process have been considerable with West Ham missing out on an £80 million transfer, while the ongoing process has clearly affected Paqueta’s on field performances.

It seems clear at this point that this saga will run and run. The FA really should follow this up with a further investigation into their management of this whole process, while it's hard to think that the powers that be at West Ham would not be unreasonable in considering legal action against the FA

who really haven't handled this well. The very fact that the process has dragged on this long suggests that evidence to back the FA allegations is at best and unlikely to be enough to justify the profound impact this has had upon the club and the player himself. 

Meanwhile, it remains ominously silent on the transfer front despite West Ham's clear need to build upon a squad which is currently not well suited to playing within the Graham Potter system.

In short, the whole business has been a total shambles  and it will be a relief for all concerned when we finally get back to playing football!

Hammers chugging their way to the season's end

As the season chugs towards a dull conclusion, Hammers fans have a visit to fellow mediocrity merchants Man United. 

There's remarkably little to get excited about as this is truly a dead rubber. Both sides are looking towards major rebuilds in the Summer with the clearout at West ham already under way as Coufal, Fabianski and Cresswell all reach the end of their contracts. 

Similarly, Danny Ings is scheduled to finally leave the London stadium but many fans will only believe he's gone when he pops up at another club. 

It hasn't been the Potter revolution that fans hoped for as the Hammers have only won three games since his arrival and you sense the current squad dont have the attributes he desires.

It's an odd looking starting XI today with Areola between the sticks, Todibo/Kilman/Cresswell in CB with Coufal and WanBissaka down the flanks. Rodriguez, Soucek and Ward-Prowse manmidfield with Bowen and Kudus up top.

Is Potter looking for a draw you might ask? No Paqueta, Ferguson or Fullkrug but they may appear from the bench.

Man Utd have Europa League distractions so this could turn out a bit of a stalemate. Rory Nostradamus is going for a 2-2 draw with the Hammers conceding their usual late goal to mess things up.

Kick off is 2.15

COYI!!!

The Wolves Circle as Paqueta Starts

It's back to the Premiership and with 9 games to go the Hammers are already building for next season with relegation or Europe both now unlikely outcones to a season blighted by chaos.

Word is that the Paqueta case is moving in a more positive direction and the star has deemed himself fit for tonight's game - despite the incredible stress of a potential life ban in the offing!

It's a big night for Evan Ferguson as he starts and will be looking to build on his recent scoring form for the Republic of Ireland. Similarly, Luis Guilherme gets some rare match time as Mo Kudus is out injured. Niclas Fullkrug is on the bench.

Wolves, in contrast, are without their talismanic Brazilian - Matheus Cunha- serving a ban for naughty behaviour!

Max Killman will be hoping to impress as he faces his old mates in his first return to Molineux. He is in a vack three with Cresswell and Mavropanus. Todibo is on the bench.

Will Ward-Prowse treat us to similar magic to last season's equivalent fixture where he scored directly from a corner to clinch the tie?

West Ham: Areola, Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Kilman, Cresswell, Scarles, Ward-Prowse, Paquetá, Guilherme, Bowen ©, Ferguson
Subs: Fabiański (GK), Coufal, Emerson, Todibo, Rodríguez, Álvarez, Soler, Souček, Füllkrug

Paqueta Pardoned!

As the Premier league kicks back into gear most folk are keeping an eye on the Lucas Paqueta FA disciplinary hearing. The talismanic Brazilian Hammer could face a life ban for alleged betting-related indiscretions relating to four yellow card offences from 2 years ago.

The odds seem stacked against Paqueta as there is only a need to establish greater than 50% probability rather than the criminal 'beyong reasonable doubt'. Moreover, the likely legal ramifications of not finding him guilty as such that the FA is likely to be well out of pocket if Paqueta is absolved as there will then be the question of the abandoned big bucks transfer to Man city to consider.

Amongst the many points raised by Paqueta's defence is that he tackles like Paul Scoles and is thus prone to more than the odd yellow cardy. Celebrity Hammers fan, George Windybottom, has also waded in stating that creative midfielders need to follow the Di Canio example and never bother to even try to tackle opposition forwards - that's how you win fair play awards, get goal of the season and play your part in the best ever squad to win relegation from the Premier league!

As the hearing rolls in to its third week there has been a major development as Chief Overlord of the Universe Ronald Trumpet has intervened by giving the Hammers star a pardon - even before a verdict can be reached!

The superpowerful one has deemed the FA's actions as "nasty" and added "i don't think they are very good at their job". 

He also confirmed that he is almost certainly a Hammer at heart as he stated "Money was never a big motivation for me, except as a way to keep score. The real excitement is playing the game."

It has also been announced that Liverpool are to be hit with 80% tariffs every time they leave the Republic of Scouse, which will probably have very little impact upon the outcome of the Premier League and will in no way protect the Hammers from a thrashing when they travel to Anfield in the coming weeks.

Happy April the first!

COYI!!!

Moyes versus Potter: tactical masterclass awaits?

By all rights this should be a classical dead rubber as West ham and Everton face eachother at Goodison for the final time today.

With both sides well clear of the drop zone but hopelessly adrift of Europeanhopes, there should be little to stir the interest today.

However, it's a case of old manager discarded in favour of more modern newbie as Graham Potter confronts Mr Moyesball in what should be a fascibating game of chess.

Both sides have glaring weaknesses such that the side tgat can dictate the game can hope to prevail. Potter likes possession while Moyes likes a disciplined defence and counterattacking with turnover ball. With both sides porous in midfield it's anyone's game!

Potter gas three centre backs with Paqueta playing well forward to support the marauding Bowen and Kudus. He may wish to give up some possession to draw Everton out but you sense it'll be a stalemate with the first to score having a big big advantage.

The Hamners are 29/10 fot the win - decent odds, especially if paired with JWP to score first at 20/1.

COYI!!!

West Ham Starting XI: Areola | Todibo, Kilman, Mavropanos | Wan-Bissaka, Soucek, Ward Prowse, Emerson | Paquetá | Bowen, Kudus.

Battle of the Underachievers Looms

We can expect an exciting clash tonight at the London stadium as West ham host Newcastle United. The Hammers look to be gaining some momentum under new boss Graham Potter but will be wary of the Magpies who remain in and out of form and with Guimaraes and Isak are more than capable of opening up the leaky Hammers defence. 

However, the Hammers look more comfortable of late with Potters 'Five at the back' formation and with Paqueta and Ferguson on the bench should be able to shake things up if needed. Newcastle have only managed 6 points in their last 6 games (one point less than the Hammers over that time) but have plenty to play for as they are 3 points off 5th and 5 points of the final Champions League spot. In short, both sides have something to proove and should be up for it.

For West ham, Niclas Fullkrug is not quite ready to return, while Newcastle will be without Anthony Gordon who is suspended. 

After two straight defeats, Newcastle will want to lay down a marker for next weeks Carabao Cup final against Liverpool but may also want to hold something back, making for a tantalising sense of uncertainty as to how the game will go. 

The bookies have West ham at 9-4 against which looks like an attractive bet given that the Geordies have a pretty poor record in their visits to London over recent years. Confusingly, long time Hammers sceptic Mark Lawrenson believes West ham will take all three points, while more predictably Alan Shearer reckons Newcastle will take the spoils. 

Kick off is at 8pm.

COYI!!!. .

West Ham: Areola, Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Kilman, Cresswell, Scarles, Álvarez, Souček, Ward-Prowse, Bowen ©, Kudus.

Subs: Fabiański (GK), Emerson, Mavropanos, Rodríguez, Soler, Paquetá, Luis Guilherme, Ferguson, Ings
 

Newcastle: Pope, Livramento, Schär, Burn, Trippier, Guimarães ©, Tonali, Joelinton, Murphy, Barnes, Isak.

Subs: Dúbravka (GK), Krafth, Targett, Longstaff, Miley, Willock, Osula, Neave, Wilson

Is Potter potty about Potts?

The Graham Potter revolution is well under way at West ham as a series of decent results has seen them quell any relegation fears and given valuable space for the manager to experiment as he rebuilds the squad.

The porous midfield that resulted in Julen Lopetegui's short reign coming to an end has beefed up considerably under Potter as the Hammers have shifted to a possession-based game. Potter has shown a willingness to bring youth into the set up with Ollie Scarles, Luis Gilherme and Andy Irving gaining valuable game time since Potters arrival.

However, the midfield still lacks pace and the concerns about Lucas Paqueta's future are growing as his FA hearing looms. 

One option that Potter will be looking at is to assess the future of young Freddie Potts. From a dyed-in-the-wool Hammers clan, young Potts had enjoyed a successful breakthrough into the first team with three European games in the '22/'23 season and then grabbed player of the season at Wycombe Wanderers the following year. 

This season he has been on-loan at Portsmouth in the Championship and played in all but one of their games. Come season's end, Potter will have a big decision to make about the lad's future. At 22 years old, with quick feet and decent pace, he fits the Potter mould. 

And let's not forget that his dad, Steve, is a former Hammer of the year!

COYI!!!

Where to now for Potter's party?

Ain't gonna win the league now Fam, Bruv innit!

It was a day to be proud for West ham fans as the Hammers made the short trip to the Emirates and all but killed Arsenal's title hopes, taking all three points with an unexpected 1-0 victory!

The bookies has the Hammers at 17-2 for the win but despite an underwhelming performance last week at home to Brentford, you get the sense that Graham Potter is starting to weave some much-needed magic.

In fairness, the Hammers deserved their win with a highly disciplined performance that shipped only a handful of half chances to the Gunners whilst the Irons looked dangerous (and for once, coherent!) on the break. 

Naturally, it fell to the talismanic Bowen to deliver the killer blow, but there were outstanding performances from Wan Bissaka and young Ollie Scarles that left much to feel positive about. Equally, Todibo put in a solid shift alongside the dependable Kilman and Evan Ferguson gained some more game time and will surely soon get his first full start in Claret and Blue.

The back 3/5 set up worked well with Arsenal choked for space and amusingly, Declan Rice got pulld just after the hour mark and was forced to watch in agony as the Hammers derailed the Gooners titke chase for the second year running in their own back yard.

The win all but ends concerns that Potter's side might get sucked into a relegation dog fight as another 2-3 results in their final 12 games will surely keep them above anything Southampton, Ipswich and Leicester can muster.

More importantly, it gives Potter some room in which to continue his development of the team. With an attractive run of fixtures looming (Leicester (H: 27 February), Newcastle (H: 10 March), Everton (A:15 March), Wolves (A:1 April) and Bournemouth (H:5 April) before the chance to take a free shot at Liverpool on the 12th of April.

COYI!!!

Ferguson can be the new Ashton!

It's been a quiet January transfer window for West ham with one arrival and no departures. 

However, if West ham can finally find a striker to fill Michail Antonio's boots then jusrt the single incoming won't bother too many Hammers fans.

Evan Ferguson certainly has the potential to be a top class Premiership striker, with speed, strength and a decent finish. 

He's previously been compared to Alan Shearer, but Hammers fans will feel that we are still owed one from the Gods of Football after the untimely loss of Dean Ashton - a striker with many similarities to young Ferguson. 

Its hard to fully digest that Evan is still only 20 years old! He has so much time to develop and although the signibg is a straight loan without a buy option, his current contract at Brighton ends in 2026 so by this seasons end even if he has a successful Hammers spell his transfer tag will be much more affordable than the £100m valuation previously tagged on him.

He's going to be wearing number 34 and will be available for the Brentfod game on Saturday week.

We wish him the very Verywestham best!

A bridge too far beckons for wounded West Ham

As the transfer window edges towards shutting, Hammers eyes are diverted to the business of trying to eek out a result away to Chelsea. 

Graham Potter would undoubtedly love to get one over on his former employers but its a tall task as the Hammers are truly down to the bare bones and have a group of largely untested youngsters on the bench.

One bright light is the return of captain Jarrod Bowen, a few weeks earlier than expected. However, there is no Paqueta, Sumerville or Alvarez which has made for a makeshift midfield and a full debut for young Alan Irving.

It's a pity but due to transfer rules the game comes too soon for newbie Evan Ferguson and the returning JWP. As such, Potter is going to beed to pull off a tactical masterclass if the Hammers are to avoid a spanking like they received in the home clash earlier in the season. 

Then again, it's Chelsea and we are West ham, so the improbable is likely. Bizarrely, Mavropanus remains on the bench while Kilman, Wan Bissaka, Coufal and Cresswekk play in defence. Perhaps Soucek will drop back as a makeshift centre back but its a hard one to fathom.

Even harder to grasp is how on oddschecker Evan Ferguson is 12/1 to score the opening goal while Jarrod Bowen is 14/1! Otherwise, Chelsea are 3/10 for the win with the Hammers 9/1 against. The draw at 11/2 looks the best bet.

COYI!!! 

West ham: Areola, Wan-Bissaka, Coufal, Kilman, Cresswell, Emerson, Soucek, Irving, Soler, Bowen, Kudus

Subs: Fabianski, Foderingham, Mavropanos, Guilherme, Ings, Rodriguez, Casey, Scarles, Orford

It's Fergie Time at the Hammers!

Ravaged by injuries and with hardly a forward left with two functioning legs, finally West ham have some incoming. Evan Ferguson is on his way on a short loan until the season's end - a good development for both parties as the lad is fit again and desperately needs game time. 

But there does not seem to be any follow through with the arrangement which means he is likely to Lingard at the seasons end as there is no word of an option to buy.

Ferguson will be happy to reunite with Graham Potter and hopefully rediscover the form that had him valued at £100M before his injury woes. 

Ferguson is an undoubted talent - a physical presence with an eye for goal but still at 20 years old has much more to give. Potter will be an ideal mentor and with the dearth of attacking options at the London stadium he can expect to get a decent chance to regain his momentum. With Bowen, Sumerville and Kudus around him maybe West ham will finally have an attacking set up that can deliver.

Tomorrow night away at Chelsea would be a hell of a place to lay down a mark.

Welcome to West ham Evan.

COYI!!!